Let’s take a look at some of the steps to take to start a winter club.
When the cold winter months settle in, starting a winter club can be a great way to stay connected, active, and engaged. Whether you’re looking to share a favorite hobby, meet like-minded people, or simply brighten up the season, a winter club is a wonderful opportunity to build community and enjoy shared interests. Let’s take a look at some of the easy steps you can take to start a winter club.
Pick an Activity That Sparks Joy
The first step in starting a winter club is choosing the activity or theme. Think about what you enjoy and what might appeal to others in your community. Crafting clubs are ideal for creating cozy winter crafts like knitting, crocheting, embroidery, or quilting. Book clubs can focus on seasonal reads or tackle a long-awaited novel together. Hobby groups might center around activities like photography, puzzles, or cooking, while special interest groups could include a hearing-loss support group or a club centered around shared goals or challenges. The key is to pick something you’re passionate about—it’ll make the process enjoyable and draw others who share your enthusiasm.
Set Up a Meeting Place or Virtual Space
You will want to decide whether your club will meet in person, online, or some combination of both. For in-person clubs, find a space that’s accessible, warm, and welcoming. Libraries, community centers, or even someone’s home can be great options. Ensure the venue accommodates your group size and the activity you’ve chosen. If you’re opting for a virtual club, choose an easy-to-use platform like Zoom or Google Meet. Virtual meetings allow participants to join from the comfort of their own homes, especially during harsh winter weather or during outbreaks of cold or flu viruses. Be sure to provide clear instructions for accessing the platform and consider including closed captioning for accessibility.
Invite People to Participate
Spread the word about your new winter club to attract members. Start by inviting friends, family, and neighbors who might be interested. Use local community boards, social media, or neighborhood apps to share details about your club. Include the activity, meeting location (or link), and any supplies needed. Make your invitations welcoming and inclusive, emphasizing that the club is for anyone who shares an interest in the activity or theme.
Determine Meeting Frequency and Format
Decide how often your club will meet and how long each session will last. Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly meetings are all great options, depending on the nature of the activity and members’ availability. For example, a book club might meet monthly to discuss a new book, while a knitting club could gather weekly for more frequent collaboration. Outline the structure of your meetings to ensure they’re productive and enjoyable. Include time for introductions, the main activity, and some socializing to build connections among members.
Prepare for Your First Meeting
Plan your first meeting with care to set the tone for your club. Make sure you have all the necessary supplies, whether it’s craft materials, discussion guides, or refreshments for in-person meetings. If it’s a virtual meeting, test your platform beforehand and ensure all participants have the link and any needed resources. Use the first session to introduce yourself and the purpose of the club. Give participants a chance to share their interests and goals and ask for input on how they’d like the club to operate. Consider taking notes of this first meeting to look back to and writing loose guidelines or community rules for members to refer to.
Keep Things Flexible and Fun
As your winter club gets going, stay open to feedback and be willing to adapt. Encourage members to suggest activities, themes, or changes to the meeting format to keep things fresh and engaging. The goal is to make the club a welcoming space where everyone feels valued and involved.
Starting a winter club is about more than the activity—it’s about creating connections and making the most of the season. By following these steps and embracing the spirit of collaboration, you’ll build a group that brings joy and warmth to chilly days. So, grab your favorite idea, gather your people, and get ready to make this winter a season to remember. Visit the CapTel blog for additional ideas and resources.
